I did some serious cleaning today and got a ton accomplished. I started around 6:30 and worked pretty much through til 3pm or so.
Entrance Area: Swept, vaccuumed, washed the tile floor
Living Room: Vaccuumed, dusted all tables, cleared all the boxes still sitting from when I moved in, decorated the entrance table w/knick knacks from my trips and my new wine rack (thanks to freecycle), organized the coffee table contents
Kitchen: Cleaned the stove, countertops, ran the dishwasher, swept, cleaned the floor (by hand), dusted the table, cleaned out the toaster oven
Bathroom: Swept, cleaned the floor
Bedroom: Vaccuumed, dusted the dresser and bed, washed sheets and remade the bed, decorated the nightstand with a variety of items (shotglasses, UD stuff, poem/picture collage Allie made me), hung a clock over my dresser mirror, cleared the two boxes still left there from the move
It feels good to get all of this done and my condo looks great. Now it's time to relax for a little while I think.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
2 More Student Letters
I found two more notes from past students today.
Dear Mr. Mingle,
Thank you very much for being such a nice advisor for The Devil's Advocate. I had fun (a lot) this year joining you and the rest of the group. I also learned a lot of things from you. Thank you for the note you gave me. It was a pleasure meeting you on my American year. Have fun this summer! Have a break! :)
It's me,
SM
Dear Mr. Mingle,
It is difficult to express the impact you have had on my years at Ridge because I can't even imagine how dull it would have been without the DA. I know I've said this about a hundred times already, but I would like to say it one final time: you are one of the most dedicated and remarkable teachers I've ever met. There are few people at Ridge who care as much about anything as you do about The Devil's Advocate and the staff. Right now, I just want you to know how much I respect you, and how grateful I am for the last two years of building the DA up from nothing. I am so proud to have helped this paper reach the heights that it has, and I am so glad we have an advisor that will it become even better in the future.
For my first two years at Ridge, the newspaper was a disappointment; I had intended it to be my main activity at Ridge, and it was a waste of time; no one cared about it, no one read it. And now, another two years later, the DA is a real newspaper, a club, a community, a source of pride. It has defined my last years here, filling them with far more than academics, making my career at Ridge so much more meaningful. For giving me leadership experience, for allowing me to write constantly, for helping me make new friends with whom I laughed non-stop at the banquet, I thank this newspaper. The DA made me a part of something at Ridge; that could never have happened without you.
Although there was a lot wrong with the "DA Best Of" this year, we managed to get one part right: our staff overwhelmingly voted you "Most Multi-Talented." It is so true. I can remember emailing you a DA question at 11:00pm, and having an answer when I checked my email 10 minutes later. It is clear that you are constantly working for the paper, more so than any of us. You have transformed The Devil's Advocate, and I have had the most amazing experience working as News and Opinions Editor these last two years.
So, thank you. Thanks for everything. Your dedication to the DA, your help with all my journalism scholarship and contest applications, your wonderful and eloquent recommendation to Princeton for me. Just a few amazing teachers have truly changed my life with their classes. Although I never took a class of yours, you have done this as the DA advisor. I wish you success in the future, and I am definitely subscribing next year. Email me about the centerfold article for September; I will be truly sad without any more newspaper emails or 7:00am editor meetings. Seeing the "DA Mix" and hearing everyone plan for Issue 1 in September, I began to feel very nostalgic. I will miss a lot about Ridge, but leaving behind The Devil's Advocate will be one of the most dificult part of graduating. Best of luck for next year!
Sincerely,
ES
Dear Mr. Mingle,
Thank you very much for being such a nice advisor for The Devil's Advocate. I had fun (a lot) this year joining you and the rest of the group. I also learned a lot of things from you. Thank you for the note you gave me. It was a pleasure meeting you on my American year. Have fun this summer! Have a break! :)
It's me,
SM
Dear Mr. Mingle,
It is difficult to express the impact you have had on my years at Ridge because I can't even imagine how dull it would have been without the DA. I know I've said this about a hundred times already, but I would like to say it one final time: you are one of the most dedicated and remarkable teachers I've ever met. There are few people at Ridge who care as much about anything as you do about The Devil's Advocate and the staff. Right now, I just want you to know how much I respect you, and how grateful I am for the last two years of building the DA up from nothing. I am so proud to have helped this paper reach the heights that it has, and I am so glad we have an advisor that will it become even better in the future.
For my first two years at Ridge, the newspaper was a disappointment; I had intended it to be my main activity at Ridge, and it was a waste of time; no one cared about it, no one read it. And now, another two years later, the DA is a real newspaper, a club, a community, a source of pride. It has defined my last years here, filling them with far more than academics, making my career at Ridge so much more meaningful. For giving me leadership experience, for allowing me to write constantly, for helping me make new friends with whom I laughed non-stop at the banquet, I thank this newspaper. The DA made me a part of something at Ridge; that could never have happened without you.
Although there was a lot wrong with the "DA Best Of" this year, we managed to get one part right: our staff overwhelmingly voted you "Most Multi-Talented." It is so true. I can remember emailing you a DA question at 11:00pm, and having an answer when I checked my email 10 minutes later. It is clear that you are constantly working for the paper, more so than any of us. You have transformed The Devil's Advocate, and I have had the most amazing experience working as News and Opinions Editor these last two years.
So, thank you. Thanks for everything. Your dedication to the DA, your help with all my journalism scholarship and contest applications, your wonderful and eloquent recommendation to Princeton for me. Just a few amazing teachers have truly changed my life with their classes. Although I never took a class of yours, you have done this as the DA advisor. I wish you success in the future, and I am definitely subscribing next year. Email me about the centerfold article for September; I will be truly sad without any more newspaper emails or 7:00am editor meetings. Seeing the "DA Mix" and hearing everyone plan for Issue 1 in September, I began to feel very nostalgic. I will miss a lot about Ridge, but leaving behind The Devil's Advocate will be one of the most dificult part of graduating. Best of luck for next year!
Sincerely,
ES
Ridge HS In the News
http://www.nj.com/news/ledger/index.ssf?/base/news-9/1159421962259490.xml&coll=1
Ridge HS is featured in two pictures to go along with this article in today's Star Ledger. Here's one:
Ridge HS is featured in two pictures to go along with this article in today's Star Ledger. Here's one:
Interesting perspective on war in Iraq
An op/ed piece in todays Star Ledger caught my attention. The full article can be found at http://www.nj.com/columns/ledger/mulshine/index.ssf?/base/columns-0/1159423978324770.xml&coll=1.
Here are some highlights:
"Last week, the American death toll from the nation-building exercises in Afghanistan and Iraq invasion grew to exceed the death toll of 2,973 resulting from the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks."
"It turns out that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld had neglected to come up with a plan for the security situation. And that in turn permitted Iraq, which was almost entirely devoid of terrorists under Saddam Hussein, to become a hotbed of terrorism."
"Larry Johnson, a former CIA operative, has compiled on his Web site ( http://noquarter.typepad.com ) a bar graph of terror attacks on Americans as reported by the State Department in its publication "Patterns of Global Terrorism." The graph shows worldwide terror incidents running at less than 500 annually from 1992 to 2003. Then suddenly in 2004 the attacks skyrocketed to more than 2,500 a year as the Iraqi insurgency picked up steam."
Here are some highlights:
"Last week, the American death toll from the nation-building exercises in Afghanistan and Iraq invasion grew to exceed the death toll of 2,973 resulting from the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks."
"It turns out that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld had neglected to come up with a plan for the security situation. And that in turn permitted Iraq, which was almost entirely devoid of terrorists under Saddam Hussein, to become a hotbed of terrorism."
"Larry Johnson, a former CIA operative, has compiled on his Web site ( http://noquarter.typepad.com ) a bar graph of terror attacks on Americans as reported by the State Department in its publication "Patterns of Global Terrorism." The graph shows worldwide terror incidents running at less than 500 annually from 1992 to 2003. Then suddenly in 2004 the attacks skyrocketed to more than 2,500 a year as the Iraqi insurgency picked up steam."
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Japan Trip
I've purposely refrained from doing any preparation for my trip to Japan because I don't know how my current situation at work might affect that. I've been thinking that I should just contact the program and tell them I can't travel.
Last night I read through the program materials online and started getting excited about it all over again. Tonight I spent some time reading a visitor's guide at Barnes and Noble. Between those two activities, I decided I really want to go...and, more importantly, I deserve to go. I applied and was selected for the program and, regardless of what my school district is doing right now, I shouldn't just give up the opportunity.
Japan is such an interesting place. There are a great deal of traditional idiosyncrasies to be aware of and I really like the ritualistic aspects of society. I think some small effort on my part to practice the customs while there will go a long way towards developing my experience. I ordered some audio CDs today to learn basic Japanese phrases and vocabulary. I doubt I'll pick up much between now and my scheduled departure on November 12, but every little bit counts.
My only fear of starting all this preparation is that I could still have this trip pulled out from under me depending on how things go. By allowing myself to get excited about it all over again, I'm also setting myself up to be severely disappointed if it's taken away.
Last night I read through the program materials online and started getting excited about it all over again. Tonight I spent some time reading a visitor's guide at Barnes and Noble. Between those two activities, I decided I really want to go...and, more importantly, I deserve to go. I applied and was selected for the program and, regardless of what my school district is doing right now, I shouldn't just give up the opportunity.
Japan is such an interesting place. There are a great deal of traditional idiosyncrasies to be aware of and I really like the ritualistic aspects of society. I think some small effort on my part to practice the customs while there will go a long way towards developing my experience. I ordered some audio CDs today to learn basic Japanese phrases and vocabulary. I doubt I'll pick up much between now and my scheduled departure on November 12, but every little bit counts.
My only fear of starting all this preparation is that I could still have this trip pulled out from under me depending on how things go. By allowing myself to get excited about it all over again, I'm also setting myself up to be severely disappointed if it's taken away.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Hiking at Sourland Mountain Preserve
As I suggested I might in last night's entry, I headed out to the Sourland Mountain Preserve this morning. Using a couple notes I jotted down while at B&N and the guide posts provided by the Somerset County Parks Department, I journeyed into the hardest of the 3 trails (4-5 miles, 2-3 hour suggested pacing) at 11:15.
Some areas of the trail were steep with rockly slopes and mud, but for the most part it wasn't too bad. The weather was great for a hike, mid-60s and a beautiful, clear sky. Unfortunately my camera batteries died early on so I only managed 3 photos, and not of the best scenery.
The highlight of the hike was an area about 1 hr and 20 min in. I came out into a clearing after having spent the entire previous 80 minutes inside pretty dense forest. There I could see out over the rolling hills of Montgomery and Hillsborough. Here I also noticed an unmarked trail heading in
the opposite direction up a pretty steep hill. Thinking I'd have a great view of the other direction from the top, I went for it. Like a mirage, the top kept getting further away. As I'd reach the summit, I'd see another hill before me. At the top of each of these areas I found a gate next to a group of rocks. The gate was one like you would see at the end of a business driveway to keep cars out, but there was no road or even a hint of a car trail in sight. In fact, if you drove straight out of the "gate" you'd wind up in the forest area. Very odd.The best guess I can make is the gates were somehow related to the old pipeline going through the area. I walked along the pipeline clearing for a few minutes. After reading about it last night, I had the impression that this was an in-use line, but in reality it was clearly out-of-service given that I only saw about 5 feet of pipe open on both ends. Signs warned of the pipeline anyway so perhaps it was in service until relatively recently.
I experienced a broad range of emotions during the 2 hr 15 min I was hiking. I enjoyed the absence of industrial sounds for the first 50 minutes before I heard my first plane and later a train. I jumped at the sounds of squirrels scurrying and stared at the intricate spider webs strung throughout the wooded areas. While attempting to crest the hills noted earlier, I turned and fled when I
saw something moving in the tall reeds. I read on the website linked below that there have been fox (es?) and coyote in this area so I'm glad I didn't stay to check out my friend.At times, I contemplated how small and insignificant I was compared to the rocks and boulders, some as big as a house, found throughout this preserve. They've been there for thousands of years and they could care less what happens to me in my life, what happened to the German settlers that named the area in the 1700s, what happened to the Native Americans who made their way through before the settlers, etc.
Other times I thought about why I had the free time to take this hike. I considered where I've been, all that I've accomplished and what my plans for the future are and were. The thought briefly flitted through my mind that perhaps I've already reached the zenith of my career. To use a drum corps comparison - is it possible that I peaked too early? Am I going to wind up doing some other than teaching with my life all because of stupid love letters?
I did my best to push those thoughts out of my mind, but I had lots of time to think. There were moments where I was so deeply into my philosophical musings that I didn't even realize I had just traversed some rock field or wandered over a boardwalk built by an Eagle Scout candidate.
All in all, I had a good time and got some much needed exercise and fresh air. I'm going to head to B&N again tonight; maybe I'll find an idea for my next adventure.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sourland_Mountain_Preserve
Article in the Bernardsville News
I've purposely kept details about my current situation vague in this blog, but the following article appeared in the Bernardsville News, the local paper that serves the community where this is all going down so there's no reason to keep it off here any longer. In some ways it's almost better to get it out there.
Ridge band ‘on track’ despite changes
By W. JACOB PERRY Staff Writer
09/20/2006
BERNARDS TWP. – Ridge High School band activities are proceeding this fall, despite the replacement of the band director and assistant director earlier this month.
The former director, Marian Stewart, and her assistant director, Matt Mingle, were suspended from their teaching jobs with pay effective Tuesday, Sept. 6, and Wednesday, Sept. 7, respectively, pending the outcome of an investigation, Superintendent Valerie Goger said in response to an inquiry by this newspaper. Goger said she could not disclose the reasons behind the suspensions.
According to several band parents, the investigation was triggered by an incident connected to a band camp custom in which seniors and freshmen exchange letters. One such letter, from a freshman male to a senior female, was reportedly pornographic in nature, leading the senior’s parents to complain to district officials. The investigation focused on an allegation that the letter was read aloud in front of students, according to several sources.
Robert Van Wageninge, a music teacher at Cedar Hill and Liberty Corner schools, is now directing the band and will be up for a formal appointment at the Board of Education meeting on Monday, Sept. 25, Goger said.
“We have very talented student section leaders who will ensure that the band continues without interruption,” she said.
The Ridge High band program has about 80 students.
One band parent, who asked not to be identified by name, said parents and students alike were initially puzzled by the suspensions and concerned that the program would grind to a halt. “The situation was more complex than we first knew,” she said. “They didn’t tell us. The kids were devastated about the whole thing.” She said the administration initially failed to assure parents and students that the program would go on but subsequently did get it “back and running.”
Lindy Richelo, president of the Ridge Marching Band Parents Association, did not return calls seeking comment.
Charlotte Kalamar, who handles publicity for the association, echoed the views of the other parent. “In the beginning, there was a lot of confusion, a lot of hearsay,” she said. “People were angry and wanted answers. That was the initial reaction.” Since then, she said, “parents are trying to put their feelings aside and putting everything back on track. “The goal of the kids and parents is to get ready for the football games,” she added. “There has been a tremendous amount of unity.”
Stewart, who is a Ridge music teacher, did not return a phone message left by this newspaper seeking comment. Stewart’s teaching salary is $53,641 and her band stipend was $4,298. She has been a district teacher for eight years and a marching band advisor for six years.
Mingle, who is a Ridge social studies teacher, could not be reached for comment. Hired by the district three years ago, his teaching salary is $43,071 and his band stipend was $2,925.
The two co-presidents of the Bernards Township Education Association, Denise Graff at William Annin Middle School and Linda Saalfield at Liberty Corner School, did not return phone messages from this newspaper seeking comment on any involvement the union might have in the matter.
Ridge band ‘on track’ despite changes
By W. JACOB PERRY Staff Writer
09/20/2006
BERNARDS TWP. – Ridge High School band activities are proceeding this fall, despite the replacement of the band director and assistant director earlier this month.
The former director, Marian Stewart, and her assistant director, Matt Mingle, were suspended from their teaching jobs with pay effective Tuesday, Sept. 6, and Wednesday, Sept. 7, respectively, pending the outcome of an investigation, Superintendent Valerie Goger said in response to an inquiry by this newspaper. Goger said she could not disclose the reasons behind the suspensions.
According to several band parents, the investigation was triggered by an incident connected to a band camp custom in which seniors and freshmen exchange letters. One such letter, from a freshman male to a senior female, was reportedly pornographic in nature, leading the senior’s parents to complain to district officials. The investigation focused on an allegation that the letter was read aloud in front of students, according to several sources.
Robert Van Wageninge, a music teacher at Cedar Hill and Liberty Corner schools, is now directing the band and will be up for a formal appointment at the Board of Education meeting on Monday, Sept. 25, Goger said.
“We have very talented student section leaders who will ensure that the band continues without interruption,” she said.
The Ridge High band program has about 80 students.
One band parent, who asked not to be identified by name, said parents and students alike were initially puzzled by the suspensions and concerned that the program would grind to a halt. “The situation was more complex than we first knew,” she said. “They didn’t tell us. The kids were devastated about the whole thing.” She said the administration initially failed to assure parents and students that the program would go on but subsequently did get it “back and running.”
Lindy Richelo, president of the Ridge Marching Band Parents Association, did not return calls seeking comment.
Charlotte Kalamar, who handles publicity for the association, echoed the views of the other parent. “In the beginning, there was a lot of confusion, a lot of hearsay,” she said. “People were angry and wanted answers. That was the initial reaction.” Since then, she said, “parents are trying to put their feelings aside and putting everything back on track. “The goal of the kids and parents is to get ready for the football games,” she added. “There has been a tremendous amount of unity.”
Stewart, who is a Ridge music teacher, did not return a phone message left by this newspaper seeking comment. Stewart’s teaching salary is $53,641 and her band stipend was $4,298. She has been a district teacher for eight years and a marching band advisor for six years.
Mingle, who is a Ridge social studies teacher, could not be reached for comment. Hired by the district three years ago, his teaching salary is $43,071 and his band stipend was $2,925.
The two co-presidents of the Bernards Township Education Association, Denise Graff at William Annin Middle School and Linda Saalfield at Liberty Corner School, did not return phone messages from this newspaper seeking comment on any involvement the union might have in the matter.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
B&N = Cheap Entertainment
To get out of my condo tonight, I decided to head to Barnes & Noble. I didn't have any real need to purchase anything; I was just looking for something to do that wouldn't cost me much money.
I ended up spending $1.81 on coffee (grande, Starbucks coffee) and spent a few cents on gas, but other than that, my two hours at B&N was cost free.
What did I do with that much time in a bookstore?
I began by browsing. I skimmed through a book on passing a real estate licensing exam and the current edition of "What Color is my Parachute" and allowed my mind to wander to some worst-case scenarios about my current situation. I briefly contemplated picking up a self-improvement book, paged through a few pages of the second Weird NJ book and made my way to the poker books.
I grabbed my coffee and perched myself at a table with a good view of the food area so I could do some reading, take some notes and people watch.
From time to time I enjoy playing poker online so I thought it would benefit me to do some reading on techniques and approaches. I used three different books from respected poker players for this research.
Next, I copied down some key information about two Somerset County parks that have decent hiking trails. I'm planning to spend part of tomorrow morning at one that's located only about 10 minutes from my condo. It will be nice to get out in the fresh air on the first day of fall, take some pictures and get some much needed exercise.
I haven't been in a library since I graduated college. I don't even know how to go about getting a library card in Hillsborough and don't really have much desire to do so. I'd rather sit in a place like B&N with some relaxing music, a cup of coffee and some books. Whatever mood I happen to be in, I can find something to keep me occupied. If I want a break from words, I can put on some headphones and listen to CDs in the music section. Around me were such a variety of people: young and old, male and female, students and professionals, all different races and ethnicities. Some were listening to headphones and highlighting in books, others were on laptops obviously working on college homework, a small group was discussing some kind of business relationship, another middle-aged man was making travel plans with women that were old enough to be his mother and an aunt. I overheard an elderly couple talk to first their son at work in California and then their grandon to plan a visit home. I listened as the three coffee shop employees bantered about inconsequential work-related complaints and mused over the fact that a female employee, probably no more than 5 years younger than me, asked me if I was "done with any of your books, sir?"
Is this over-analytical for a visit to Barnes & Noble? Maybe. Instead, I look at is a refreshing, uplifting way to spend my evening. One of opportunity and future possibilities. I think I'll be seeing more of that place soon.
I ended up spending $1.81 on coffee (grande, Starbucks coffee) and spent a few cents on gas, but other than that, my two hours at B&N was cost free.
What did I do with that much time in a bookstore?
I began by browsing. I skimmed through a book on passing a real estate licensing exam and the current edition of "What Color is my Parachute" and allowed my mind to wander to some worst-case scenarios about my current situation. I briefly contemplated picking up a self-improvement book, paged through a few pages of the second Weird NJ book and made my way to the poker books.
I grabbed my coffee and perched myself at a table with a good view of the food area so I could do some reading, take some notes and people watch.
From time to time I enjoy playing poker online so I thought it would benefit me to do some reading on techniques and approaches. I used three different books from respected poker players for this research.
Next, I copied down some key information about two Somerset County parks that have decent hiking trails. I'm planning to spend part of tomorrow morning at one that's located only about 10 minutes from my condo. It will be nice to get out in the fresh air on the first day of fall, take some pictures and get some much needed exercise.
I haven't been in a library since I graduated college. I don't even know how to go about getting a library card in Hillsborough and don't really have much desire to do so. I'd rather sit in a place like B&N with some relaxing music, a cup of coffee and some books. Whatever mood I happen to be in, I can find something to keep me occupied. If I want a break from words, I can put on some headphones and listen to CDs in the music section. Around me were such a variety of people: young and old, male and female, students and professionals, all different races and ethnicities. Some were listening to headphones and highlighting in books, others were on laptops obviously working on college homework, a small group was discussing some kind of business relationship, another middle-aged man was making travel plans with women that were old enough to be his mother and an aunt. I overheard an elderly couple talk to first their son at work in California and then their grandon to plan a visit home. I listened as the three coffee shop employees bantered about inconsequential work-related complaints and mused over the fact that a female employee, probably no more than 5 years younger than me, asked me if I was "done with any of your books, sir?"
Is this over-analytical for a visit to Barnes & Noble? Maybe. Instead, I look at is a refreshing, uplifting way to spend my evening. One of opportunity and future possibilities. I think I'll be seeing more of that place soon.
Going to the dentist
Am I the only one who does this?
Right before leaving to go to the dentist, I brush my teeth as well as I possibly can. This is no ordinary twice a day brushing, this is an all-out war against my teeth.
Why do I do this? I think it's because I want the dentist to believe that I've been brushing, flossing and rinsing perfectly for the past 6 months (or in this case, 12 months).
I have a feeling he and the hygienist aren't fooled though.
The oddest part is that I'm going in for a cleaning. If anything, now is the time to let my teeth be gross. Eat some tootsie rolls in the waiting room or something.
Right before leaving to go to the dentist, I brush my teeth as well as I possibly can. This is no ordinary twice a day brushing, this is an all-out war against my teeth.
Why do I do this? I think it's because I want the dentist to believe that I've been brushing, flossing and rinsing perfectly for the past 6 months (or in this case, 12 months).
I have a feeling he and the hygienist aren't fooled though.
The oddest part is that I'm going in for a cleaning. If anything, now is the time to let my teeth be gross. Eat some tootsie rolls in the waiting room or something.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
New Jersey's Got It!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Haw24YhGes+
Where I grew up as portrayed by Stephen Colbert: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdHzoOVX5dE
Where I grew up as portrayed by Stephen Colbert: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdHzoOVX5dE
Monday, September 11, 2006
A collection of thank yous and notes
June 22, 2005
Thanks so very much for all the help and guidance you have given A this year. She has really done well, and it's teachers like you who have made that happen. You really pushed her, and I'm so proud of her work and success.
I hope you have a great summer - fun and relaxing. Thanks, again, for being such a dedicated and caring teacher.
Fondly,
MH
Dear Mr. Mingle,
Thank you so much for helping J through Political Economy. He always spoke so highly of you - even when he was not doing great work. You sound like a wonderful teacher and I am so glad that J had you for his teacher.
DR
Mr. Mingle,
Thank you so much for everything with The Devil's Advocate this year. I really appreciated the opportunity to write quality articles that students wanted to read. Also, thank you for the wonderful recommendation letter. You have helped all of us in finding a voice for the student body.
Truly,
AR
Dear Mr. Mingle,
Thank you very much for your help and support this year. I appreciate the extra help you gave me when I needed it most. Have a great summer.
Sincerely,
SO
Mr. Mingle,
I just wanted to thank you for everything you have done for us this year. None of it would have been possible without your hard work and time that you have put into the marching band. I am looking forward to working with you next year.
C
To Mr. Mingle,
In appreciation for all you have done to help us make The Devil's Advocate a newspaper that the entire school is reading.
We are all proud to be a part of this paper and know we couldn't have done it without your help and your vision of what a great paper The Devil's Advocate could be!
The 2004-2005 Editors and Staff
Thanks so very much for all the help and guidance you have given A this year. She has really done well, and it's teachers like you who have made that happen. You really pushed her, and I'm so proud of her work and success.
I hope you have a great summer - fun and relaxing. Thanks, again, for being such a dedicated and caring teacher.
Fondly,
MH
Dear Mr. Mingle,
Thank you so much for helping J through Political Economy. He always spoke so highly of you - even when he was not doing great work. You sound like a wonderful teacher and I am so glad that J had you for his teacher.
DR
Mr. Mingle,
Thank you so much for everything with The Devil's Advocate this year. I really appreciated the opportunity to write quality articles that students wanted to read. Also, thank you for the wonderful recommendation letter. You have helped all of us in finding a voice for the student body.
Truly,
AR
Dear Mr. Mingle,
Thank you very much for your help and support this year. I appreciate the extra help you gave me when I needed it most. Have a great summer.
Sincerely,
SO
Mr. Mingle,
I just wanted to thank you for everything you have done for us this year. None of it would have been possible without your hard work and time that you have put into the marching band. I am looking forward to working with you next year.
C
To Mr. Mingle,
In appreciation for all you have done to help us make The Devil's Advocate a newspaper that the entire school is reading.
We are all proud to be a part of this paper and know we couldn't have done it without your help and your vision of what a great paper The Devil's Advocate could be!
The 2004-2005 Editors and Staff
A card from the band
Dear Mr. Mingle,
Ohhh Mingle - what can I say? You've done so much in the past 3 years and I know there will be many more to come. Your passion for marching band inspires us all to excel - either that or a death by your "death rays." You might not here (sic) it to (sic) much but we love you and thank you so much.
Yours forever,
The Ridge Marching Band 2005
Ohhh Mingle - what can I say? You've done so much in the past 3 years and I know there will be many more to come. Your passion for marching band inspires us all to excel - either that or a death by your "death rays." You might not here (sic) it to (sic) much but we love you and thank you so much.
Yours forever,
The Ridge Marching Band 2005
Another letter
November 6, 2004
I am president of the parents' association affiliated with Ridge High School marching band and have had the joy of working with Mr. Mingle for the last 15 months. Mr. Mingle is Assistant Band Director for our Ridge marching band. During his tenure on the teaching band staff, I have noticed the students are much more enthusiastic and attentive to responsibilities associated with the band. He has created discipline and earned respect from the students through his example of hard work and enthusiasm. He has become the driving force for the band through his dedication, most overtly evident by his abundant effort directed to this school activity and his attention to detail in instruction to the students. He is also a (sic) insightful, compassionate, and friendly individual to whom the students can easily bond to.
Respectfully,
FF
I am president of the parents' association affiliated with Ridge High School marching band and have had the joy of working with Mr. Mingle for the last 15 months. Mr. Mingle is Assistant Band Director for our Ridge marching band. During his tenure on the teaching band staff, I have noticed the students are much more enthusiastic and attentive to responsibilities associated with the band. He has created discipline and earned respect from the students through his example of hard work and enthusiasm. He has become the driving force for the band through his dedication, most overtly evident by his abundant effort directed to this school activity and his attention to detail in instruction to the students. He is also a (sic) insightful, compassionate, and friendly individual to whom the students can easily bond to.
Respectfully,
FF
Sunday, September 10, 2006
One more for good measure
It is a pleasure to commend Matt Mingle. In terms of ability and native intelligence, he ranks among the top quarter of undergraduates I've taught over the last thirty years at Yale University, the University of California, Irvine, Brandeis University, and the University of Delaware.
We became acquainted last September when he enrolled in my senior seminar on the history of the early American republic (1789-1830). The readings for this course consist almost entirely of primary sources, and its format emphasizes clsoe textual analysis of the assigned documents in discussions and essays. In a class with no shortage of smart, articulate history majors, Mr. Mingle instantly stood out as one of the best by virtue of his informed and reflective contributions to our discussions. He proceeded to leave no doubt about the matter by producing two nicely crafted essays - clear, fluent, and well-organized.
Mr. Mingle strikes me as uncommonly thoughtful and disciplined, quietly engaging and observant. He worked well with other members of the seminar, provis as effective a listener as a talker. I'm confident that these attributes, along with his intellectual potential, will bring him much success in the future.
Yours truly,
CLH
Distinguished Professor of History
We became acquainted last September when he enrolled in my senior seminar on the history of the early American republic (1789-1830). The readings for this course consist almost entirely of primary sources, and its format emphasizes clsoe textual analysis of the assigned documents in discussions and essays. In a class with no shortage of smart, articulate history majors, Mr. Mingle instantly stood out as one of the best by virtue of his informed and reflective contributions to our discussions. He proceeded to leave no doubt about the matter by producing two nicely crafted essays - clear, fluent, and well-organized.
Mr. Mingle strikes me as uncommonly thoughtful and disciplined, quietly engaging and observant. He worked well with other members of the seminar, provis as effective a listener as a talker. I'm confident that these attributes, along with his intellectual potential, will bring him much success in the future.
Yours truly,
CLH
Distinguished Professor of History
Another letter
Dear Educator,
I am pleased to highly recommend Matt Mingle for a teaching position. I have served as his academic advisor and his instructor in the social studies methods teaching course (Planning a Course of Instruction).
The University of Delaware has already officially recognized Mr. Mingle's accomplishments in instruction and planning. He has received Outstanding Student Teaching Awards from both the College of Arts and Science and the History Department. Matt possesses a unique combination of intelligence, dedication, and maturity that enables him to succeed at such a high level. Matt's standards-based lesson plans (addressing both State and NCSS standards) were in-depth, well written and imaginative. His ideas are original and creative, yet remain grounded in meaningful assessment of student knowledge and learning - undoubtedly the best in his class.
I believe that Mr. Mingle would be an excellent addition to any secondary school and school district. I recommend him without hesitation for this position.
Sincerely,
BAJ, Coordinator
History/Social Science Secondary Education Program
University of Delaware
I am pleased to highly recommend Matt Mingle for a teaching position. I have served as his academic advisor and his instructor in the social studies methods teaching course (Planning a Course of Instruction).
The University of Delaware has already officially recognized Mr. Mingle's accomplishments in instruction and planning. He has received Outstanding Student Teaching Awards from both the College of Arts and Science and the History Department. Matt possesses a unique combination of intelligence, dedication, and maturity that enables him to succeed at such a high level. Matt's standards-based lesson plans (addressing both State and NCSS standards) were in-depth, well written and imaginative. His ideas are original and creative, yet remain grounded in meaningful assessment of student knowledge and learning - undoubtedly the best in his class.
I believe that Mr. Mingle would be an excellent addition to any secondary school and school district. I recommend him without hesitation for this position.
Sincerely,
BAJ, Coordinator
History/Social Science Secondary Education Program
University of Delaware
Remember the positive letters?
To whom it may concern,
It is my pleasure to write this letter on behalf of Matt Mingle who is applying as a staff member in your school.
I have only known Matt for one year, but I have been very impressed with his work ethic and knowledge on the marching field. Matt was responsible for teaching marching basics and drill for the marching band. He was also responsible for teaching music sectionals for the brass section. Matt was always on time and well prepared for rehearsals. He had a very good professional relationship with the students, and worked very well with the marching staff. The band scored the second highest score in the schools (sic) history, and ended with its highest place ever at chapter championships. Matt's extensive knowledge helped contribute to the success of the marching program.
I strongly recommend Matt Mingle to your selection process. He is truly a hard working teacher that merits your most serious consideration. Thank you.
Sincerely,
JD
Director of Bands
Christiana High School
It is my pleasure to write this letter on behalf of Matt Mingle who is applying as a staff member in your school.
I have only known Matt for one year, but I have been very impressed with his work ethic and knowledge on the marching field. Matt was responsible for teaching marching basics and drill for the marching band. He was also responsible for teaching music sectionals for the brass section. Matt was always on time and well prepared for rehearsals. He had a very good professional relationship with the students, and worked very well with the marching staff. The band scored the second highest score in the schools (sic) history, and ended with its highest place ever at chapter championships. Matt's extensive knowledge helped contribute to the success of the marching program.
I strongly recommend Matt Mingle to your selection process. He is truly a hard working teacher that merits your most serious consideration. Thank you.
Sincerely,
JD
Director of Bands
Christiana High School
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
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